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Do you need Environment Agency consent to install a septic tank/sewage treatment system?

For a septic tank with a population of 15 people or less, installed in suitable ground conditions and within the suitable siting parameters (refer to Building Regulations Document H), Environment Agency consent would not be required.

For a sewage treatment system, there are currently 3 levels of permit:

Exemption permit

For discharge conditions of less than 5 cubic metres per day direct to a watercourse, or less than 2 cubic meters to ground, you can apply for an exemption permit online at no cost (this is currently under review by the Environment Agency and Defra)

Standard Rules Permit

For discharges of 20 cubic metres or less outside the above, the property owner should apply for a standard rules permit to discharge the treated effluent. Application forms are available online from the Environment Agency website, and you will need to ensure the work meets the site and system meets the criteria set out for the permit to be granted.

Bespoke Permit

For all other discharges not covered by the above, a bespoke permit is required and again can be found on the Environment Agency website, and you will need to ensure the work meets the site and system meets the criteria set out for the permit to be granted.

Registering for exemptions/permits

We can provide advice and assistance with the application process. Contact us on 01388 537030 for more information - please also visit the Environment Agency website to read more about the criteria for each permit and apply.

Feedback From Satisfied Customers

I have recently had a new sewage system installed at one of my sites which wasn't a straight forward job due to it being located in a private field, we had to make sure the owner, as well as our residents were happy with the proposals.
Ian Murray met me on site on 2 occasions, with the owner of the field ans was very professional and explained exactly what would be happening, putting the field owners mind at rest. The job went to plan with no unexpected costs and minimal disruption to the field. Very happy customer!